MAFWM: Open fires are a growing challenge for the region

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management (MAFWM) has supported a regional initiative to raise public awareness about wildfire management in the Western Balkans, the government department announced.

The Ministry said that open fires pose a serious threat and a growing challenge for the region, leaving long-lasting consequences for ecosystems, communities and the economy.

"Through improved regional coordination and joint action by relevant ministries, the Western Balkans Wildfire Management Program lays the foundation for raising public awareness of the risks of wildfires and increasing landscape resilience through sustainable ecosystem management," the statement said.

As stated, rather than relying on traditional approaches focused solely on fire suppression, the program applies the concept of integrated wildland fire management — fostering cross-sectoral cooperation, strengthening local capacities, and building resilient landscapes capable of effectively responding to fire threats.

The Ministry said that prevention is at the core of the initiative and that the goal is to ensure sustainable management of natural resources in a way that equally protects both people and ecosystems.

The goal, they stated, is to create fire-resilient landscapes and communities that will continue the initiative at a regional level in the future.

"The regional initiative is supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management as a strategic partner and includes educational activities, policy development and practical engagement in the Western Balkan countries," the statement said.

The Ministry stated that more than 90 percent of wildfires in the region are caused by human negligence.

They said that the Program calls for collective awareness, participation and responsibility to protect our landscapes and ensure a secure future for generations to come.

"With joint efforts and a long-term vision, we can strive for an ambitious but achievable goal: zero human-caused fires," the statement said.

It is stated that thanks to the continued support and partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, the initiative is gaining a solid foundation for long-term and sustainable impact in the region.